Folder Redirection

Folder Redirection is automatically provided to faculty and staff for Windows-based computers managed by IT.

Folders commonly stored on the C:\ drive of your local computer , such as the Desktop and My Documents, are stored on the UNRNAS. Access to folders on the NAS is secured by NetID and all folders are backed up nightly by UNR IT.

What will you see?

Folder Redirection on Windows-based machines executes transparently at computer start-up. Users normally won’t detect any difference in computer operation after Folder Redirection is implemented. Desktop icons and My Computer icons will remain unchanged and available. You can continue to save to your local Documents folder, and it will automatically get backed up to the NAS.

Advantages of using Folder Redirection

Folder Redirection separates user data, such as personalized desktop shortcuts and documents, from user profile data which is a record of data that configures the user's environment. A profile record can include display settings, application settings and network connections. This separation of function typically results in a decrease in login time.

Data stored on the UNRNAS is backed up nightly as part of routine system management. The data are safer and service requires no action on the part of the user. The NAS storage page provides details related to backups and emergency restores.

When users log on to other computers within the UNR network, familiar desktop icons and work-related documents are available.

In the event of a machine malfunction, vandalism or theft, faculty or staff members can be returned to productivity in a shorter time because work-related documents and desktop configurations are not impacted. Data loss is significantly reduced.

Caveats

The initial restart after folder redirection is configured and activated will take a long time because local files in the redirected directories are copied to the NAS at that time.

Software is installed on individual computers. Desktop icons (shortcuts) related to standard software such as Microsoft Office will usually be available on other machines within the network. Specialty software with a desktop icon installed on the user’s machine may not be available elsewhere.

Data stored on the NAS are not available in the event of network failure. Network failures are extremely rare.

Home access to data stored on the NAS is available only through a terminal services connection.